News for 'us secretary of state'

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Iran's Araghchi lands in Islamabad for second round of talks with US

Rediff.com25 Apr 2026

An Iranian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, is expected to arrive in Islamabad for the second round of peace talks with the US, according to Pakistani media reports. This follows a phone call between Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Araghchi regarding the US-Iran ceasefire and Pakistan's diplomatic efforts.

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Opposition backs women's quota, to vote against delimitation

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

Several opposition parties on Wednesday decided to jointly oppose the delimitation provisions in the Constitution amendment bill in Parliament, even as they reiterated support for women's reservation, with Mallikarjun Kharge alleging the move is politically motivated.

Abhishek Banerjee Appeals To BJP Candidate On Rape Bill

Abhishek Banerjee Appeals To BJP Candidate On Rape Bill

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged BJP candidate Ratna Debnath to appeal to PM Modi to ensure the Aparajita Bill, aimed at time-bound punishment for rape convicts, is enacted.

Amit Shah: Mamata Banerjee Shielding Infiltrators In Bengal

Amit Shah: Mamata Banerjee Shielding Infiltrators In Bengal

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of shielding infiltrators, promoting dynastic politics, and supporting the construction of a mosque resembling the Babri Masjid.

'Unacceptable': India on attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz

'Unacceptable': India on attacks on ships in Strait of Hormuz

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

India has expressed strong concern over the targeting of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz during the West Asia conflict, urging for the restoration of unimpeded navigation and global commerce.

Mojtaba Khamenei's face disfigured but 'mentally sharp': Report

Mojtaba Khamenei's face disfigured but 'mentally sharp': Report

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Iran's Supreme Leader, is reportedly recovering from injuries sustained in an attack. Reports indicate he is participating in meetings and decision-making despite his condition.

Kerala parents plead for son's return from Iranian ship amid West Asia conflict

Kerala parents plead for son's return from Iranian ship amid West Asia conflict

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The parents of Jerin George, a native of Haripad in Kerala, have appealed to authorities to help bring their son home after he became stranded on an Iranian ship due to the conflict in West Asia.

Judicial officers' gherao in Malda: SC transfers probe to NIA

Judicial officers' gherao in Malda: SC transfers probe to NIA

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

The Supreme Court has transferred the investigation of the Malda incident, involving the gherao and attack on judicial officers, to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), citing concerns about the credibility of West Bengal's bureaucracy.

Why Punjab Police Wants Bishnoi Docu-Series Banned

Why Punjab Police Wants Bishnoi Docu-Series Banned

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Punjab Police has requested the Centre to direct ZEE5 to halt the airing of the docu-series 'Lawrence of Punjab' on gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, citing a significant risk to public order and potential influence on youth towards criminal activities.

US to end Russia, Iran oil waiver; India to feel heat

US to end Russia, Iran oil waiver; India to feel heat

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The United States has announced it will not renew sanctions exemptions for the purchase of Russian and Iranian oil, ending a 30-day waiver that allowed some countries, including India, to continue importing Russian oil despite sanctions related to the Ukraine war.

Lawyer, Wife And Daughter Held In Employee Murder

Lawyer, Wife And Daughter Held In Employee Murder

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

A lawyer in Pune, along with his wife and daughter, have been arrested in connection with the murder of his 32-year-old female employee. The victim's body was found in the lawyer's office, leading to the arrest and investigation of the family.

WADA Chief Meets Indian Officials to Strengthen Anti-Doping Efforts

WADA Chief Meets Indian Officials to Strengthen Anti-Doping Efforts

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

World Anti-Doping Agency President Witold Banka is in India to discuss the implementation of effective anti-doping measures with sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya and other officials, following concerns about India's high doping numbers.

BJP Punjab Chief: Attack Won't Deter Resolve to Build 'New Punjab'

BJP Punjab Chief: Attack Won't Deter Resolve to Build 'New Punjab'

Rediff.com6 Apr 2026

BJP's Punjab unit chief Sunil Jakhar asserts the party's commitment to building a 'new Punjab' despite recent attacks, highlighting key issues like drug abuse and governance failures in the state.

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Did Modi violate poll code? EC to examine complaint

Rediff.com21 Apr 2026

The Election Commission will examine a complaint filed by opposition parties alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to the nation violated the Model Code of Conduct for elections.

US 'grants' India-like waiver to all countries to buy Russian oil

US 'grants' India-like waiver to all countries to buy Russian oil

Rediff.com13 Mar 2026

The Trump administration has announced a temporary authorisation for countries to purchase Russian oil stranded at sea, aiming to stabilise global energy markets amid rising oil prices and tensions with Iran.

Abhishek Banerjee Appeals To BJP Candidate On Aparajita Bill

Abhishek Banerjee Appeals To BJP Candidate On Aparajita Bill

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged BJP candidate Ratna Debnath to appeal to PM Modi to ensure the Aparajita Bill, which aims for time-bound punishment for rape convicts, is enacted. Banerjee criticised the BJP's stance on women's safety and highlighted the TMC government's prompt action in a previous rape-murder case.

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

US Army chief ousted amid war in Iran, former Hegseth aide takes charge

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

The decision marks a significant leadership transition as the administration seeks a commander who 'will implement Donald Trump and Hegseth's vision for the Army'.

Amit Shah Focuses on Infiltration Issue in West Bengal Poll Campaign

Amit Shah Focuses on Infiltration Issue in West Bengal Poll Campaign

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Union Home Minister Amit Shah asserts the BJP will form a government in West Bengal and address the issue of infiltration, accusing Mamata Banerjee of allowing it for vote-bank politics.

Ex-Speaker Mahara Implicated in Nepal Gold Smuggling Scandal

Ex-Speaker Mahara Implicated in Nepal Gold Smuggling Scandal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Nepal's former parliament speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara and others have been accused of facilitating gold smuggling, leading to a corruption case filed by the CIAA.

Ranbir Kapoor Named Among TIME's 100 Most Influential People

Ranbir Kapoor Named Among TIME's 100 Most Influential People

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Ranbir Kapoor, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and acclaimed chef Vikas Khanna have been named among TIME magazine's 100 most influential people for 2026.

TMC seeks probe into Humayun Kabir video, alleges BJP conspiracy

TMC seeks probe into Humayun Kabir video, alleges BJP conspiracy

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has shared a purported video of Humayun Kabir, alleging a BJP conspiracy to influence the West Bengal elections. The video claims Kabir discussed strategies to divert minority votes and received funds for the plan. The BJP has denied the allegations, while Kabir claims the video is AI-generated and threatens legal action.

Release Bengal Dues Before Professing Love, Banerjee Tells Modi

Release Bengal Dues Before Professing Love, Banerjee Tells Modi

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release the pending central dues to West Bengal before professing his love for the state. Banerjee also criticised BJP leaders and defended the 'Jai Bangla' slogan.

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Why Abhishek Banerjee Is Calling For TMC Votes In Murshidabad

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee is urging voters in Murshidabad to support the TMC to thwart the BJP's influence in West Bengal. He criticised the Congress and other parties, accusing them of indirectly supporting the BJP, and highlighted the TMC's commitment to protecting minority voters and preventing the implementation of NRC in Bengal.

BAI Launches Mascot Design Contest For Badminton World Championships

BAI Launches Mascot Design Contest For Badminton World Championships

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has announced a nationwide mascot design contest for the upcoming BWF World Championships 2026, inviting fans, artists, and creators to play a role in shaping the identity of one of badminton's most prestigious global events.

KSCA Extends Pension Benefits to Veteran Women Cricketers

KSCA Extends Pension Benefits to Veteran Women Cricketers

Rediff.com1 Apr 2026

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has announced a monthly pension for former women cricketers who represented the state in the Senior Women's National Championship, aiming to honour their contributions to the sport.

Vishwaguru stands exposed: Cong mocks Modi over Pak-brokered Iran truce

Vishwaguru stands exposed: Cong mocks Modi over Pak-brokered Iran truce

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Congress party has criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic efforts following the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, facilitated in part by Pakistan. The party claims this development undermines Modi's strategy and exposes his perceived failures in foreign policy.

Enforcement Directorate Intensifies Probe in West Bengal Teachers' Scam

Enforcement Directorate Intensifies Probe in West Bengal Teachers' Scam

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

The Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches against former West Bengal education minister Partha Chatterjee and others as part of a money laundering investigation into an alleged teachers recruitment scam.

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

'India Playing A Chess Game In Nepal'

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

'Nepal today is far more aware, self-confident, aspirational, and assertive.' 'India's policy so far has not been geared to this shift. It is time to redraw our Nepal strategy.'

I-PAC Co-Founder Remanded in ED Custody Amid Coal Scam Probe

I-PAC Co-Founder Remanded in ED Custody Amid Coal Scam Probe

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

A special court in Delhi has remanded I-PAC co-founder Vinesh Chandel to ten days of ED custody following his arrest in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged coal scam in West Bengal.

How AI Can Empower Women Journalists In India

How AI Can Empower Women Journalists In India

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

Brijesh Singh, Principal Secretary (Information and Publicity), Maharashtra, highlighted the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in journalism and encouraged women journalists to embrace this technological shift to enhance their skills and drive positive change.

BJP Claims Pressure Forced Himachal Government to Reopen Chester Hills Probe

BJP Claims Pressure Forced Himachal Government to Reopen Chester Hills Probe

Rediff.com5 Apr 2026

The Himachal Pradesh government has ordered a fresh probe into alleged irregularities in the Chester Hills housing project following pressure from the BJP, who claim the government initially tried to suppress the case.

Tamil Nadu Election: 'AIADMK Is Trapped By BJP'

Tamil Nadu Election: 'AIADMK Is Trapped By BJP'

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

'The AIADMK will lose a lot of votes simply because it is aligned with the BJP.'

Opposition gears up for showdown with govt over delimitation

Opposition gears up for showdown with govt over delimitation

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

The Indian government and opposition parties are set for a showdown in Parliament over a Constitution amendment bill concerning the implementation of the women's quota law and the delimitation exercise. The Opposition is concerned about the potential impact of delimitation on the political representation of southern states.

Fadnavis Orders Thorough Probe In Key Maharashtra Cases

Fadnavis Orders Thorough Probe In Key Maharashtra Cases

Rediff.com18 Apr 2026

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reviewed key cases with the Home department and directed the police to ensure thorough investigation and strong prosecution.

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

'Bihar May Follow Gujarat Template'

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

'Samrat Chaudhury's limited independent standing within the party, his reliance on the central leadership for his elevation, and his lack of a personal mass base all point toward this outcome.'

China 'very happy' with Hormuz move, says Trump

China 'very happy' with Hormuz move, says Trump

Rediff.com15 Apr 2026

US President Donald Trump has claimed that China has committed to halting weapon supplies to Iran, following his personal diplomatic interventions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Humayun Kabir Video Sparks Political Storm in West Bengal

Humayun Kabir Video Sparks Political Storm in West Bengal

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

A political controversy has erupted in West Bengal following the emergence of an alleged video of Humayun Kabir, purportedly claiming links with senior BJP leaders and efforts to defeat Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the upcoming Assembly elections.

AIFF, ISL Clubs Review Genius Sports' Commercial Rights Plan

AIFF, ISL Clubs Review Genius Sports' Commercial Rights Plan

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The All India Football Federation met with Genius Sports and Indian Super League club owners to discuss a major proposal regarding the league's commercial rights, focusing on a long-term vision for India's top-tier competition.

BJP's Samrat Choudhary to take oath as Bihar CM on Wednesday

BJP's Samrat Choudhary to take oath as Bihar CM on Wednesday

Rediff.com14 Apr 2026

Newly-elected leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party legislative party in Bihar, Samrat Choudhary, met Governor Lt Gen Syed Ata Hasnain (retd) at Lok Bhavan on Tuesday and staked a claim to form the government in the state.

Lebanon ceasefire, asset release among Iran's conditions

Lebanon ceasefire, asset release among Iran's conditions

Rediff.com10 Apr 2026

Iran has reiterated that key preconditions must be met before negotiations with the United States can begin to resolve the conflict in West Asia, including a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of blocked Iranian assets.